Lysine Carboxymethyl Cysteinate Protects the Epidermis from UVB-Induced Barrier Damage Through the Activation of Autophagy

The study explores the protective effects of Lysine Carboxymethyl Cysteinate (LCC) against UVB-induced skin damage, emphasizing its role in activating autophagy. Using a 3D living skin equivalent model and normal human epidermal keratinocytes, LCC was shown to enhance glutathione synthesis, reduce reactive oxygen species, and restore key proteins involved in skin barrier integrity. Transcriptomic analysis revealed significant changes in over 7,000 genes related to oxidative stress and autophagy. The protective effects of LCC were confirmed, although some effects were independent of autophagy, as evidenced by the restoration of aquaporin 3 levels even when autophagy was inhibited. The study concludes that LCC holds potential as a photoprotective agent, though further research is needed to fully understand its mechanisms and validate its clinical efficacy.